The Diary of Avery Blackman: Learning

It's been years since I'd been freed, and I still haven't seen one acre of my own land from my government. I now realize that it'll never happen. Now, I just hope to get a decent education so that I can get a job and buy my own land. My school is miles away, and without a bus system or any personally owned vehicles, I have to walk the distance. I finally made my way off of my former master's land, and am now living on my own. Times are brutally difficult in the south, the white men are bitterly determined to prevent me from making anything of myself. Things are a little different up north, but I get the feeling that even in the north, the white man doesn't feel like I am his equal. I will prove myself, and become something great, so that my children may walk in my legacy and remember my sacrifice and dedication. Praise God Almighty for the opportunities He has given me to prove myself. I believe in Him, even through the violence I endure simply for the color of my skin. I make it through with the power of song, and dance, for His namesake. I know I can be more than just a Nigger. One day, I will prove it to the world.